|
|
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fantastic!, 24 Feb 2003
In the far future, exploration has brought many new worlds into the reach of humankind. To facilitate the exploitation of these worlds, trading companies are established. On the world of Uller, the Chartered Uller Company has been running matters much as the British East India Company ran India in the Eighteenth Century. While local potentates rule, humans profit and attempt to better the lot of the locals, whom they derisively call "Geeks." However, not all of the four-armed reptile-oid natives are pleased about the arrangement. When rebellion explodes, it is up to General Carlos von Schlichten, commander of the Company's army, to hold Uller for the Chartered Uller Company and the Terran Federation.This is an intelligent, and thought provoking book. The action is gripping, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance. The author's use of the old trading company paradigm in the future is nothing short of brilliant. As an added bonus, the first chapter of the book contains notes describing the silicone world of Uller and fluorine world of Niflheim, with comments on the chemistry and evolution of life on the world: this written by Dr John D. Clark, scientist and one of the discoverers of sulfa. In certain ways, this book is out of date (the scene involving scientists using their sliderules is humorous), but not in any way that damages the believability of the story. So, if you are looking for a sci-fi book with a gripping story, and a highly exotic setting, then this book is for you!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
 
|
|
|
|
